The Naga Students’ Union, Delhi (NSUD), organized its 60th Nagas’ Meet on Thursday, November 14, 2024, at Shah Auditorium, Civil Lines, New Delhi, under the theme “Unity in Perspective: Gathering Youths to Restore Togetherness.”
Hosted by Adeo Dozo and B Christina, the formal session began with a captivating war dance performed by a Maring cultural troupe. In his address, Jepi Y Chisho, President of NSUD, emphasized that the Nagas’ Meet is an annual event organized to celebrate the sense of community, reflect on the current state of Naga unity, and remind everyone of the importance of togetherness. He expressed concern over the visible erosion of unity among the younger generation and urged every young Naga to make individual efforts to connect with fellow Nagas beyond their immediate boundaries, thereby strengthening the community’s sense of togetherness across multiple borders.
The event’s keynote speaker, Prof Dr Rosemary Dzüvichü, highlighted the profound spiritual and cultural calling of the Nagas and the importance of preserving their identity and unity amid historical challenges such as massacres, human rights violations, and border disputes. She underscored the sacrifices made by Naga ancestors and the urgency of rediscovering their core values, spiritual roots, and collective purpose to honor their legacy.
She exhorted the Naga youth to resist external pressures, remain true to their heritage, and act with courage, integrity, and humility. Prof Dzüvichü called for introspection and a commitment to building a strong and enduring legacy for future generations.
The Chief Guest, Awangbow Newmai, Minister of Water Resources and Relief & Disaster Management, Government of Manipur, emphasized the urgent need for the Naga community to introspect and make wise decisions during this critical period. He observed that despite growing educational and professional achievements, issues such as mental fragility, selfishness, and disunity continue to affect Naga society. He encouraged the youth to draw lessons from the unity and wisdom of their forefathers, take responsibility for mistakes, respect leaders, and work collectively to rebuild trust and cohesion within the community. Minister Newmai urged young Nagas to abandon the culture of blame, embrace shared responsibility, and actively strive for peace and communal strength.
In its greeting message, the office of the Naga Students’ Federation noted that NSUD’s Nagas’ Meet is not just an annual event but a critical platform for young Nagas to come together, exchange ideas, celebrate their culture, and build networks to address future challenges. The federation assured its continued support to NSUD in fostering a united and thriving Naga community.
The event was also graced by notable attendees, including Sapu Bhattacharyya, Director of NEC Energy Pvt Ltd, as the special guest; Dr Lorho S Pfoze, former MP (Rajya Sabha); NSN Lotha, former President of the Naga Students’ Federation; the Resident Commissioners of Nagaland and Manipur Bhawans; officers from the Nagaland Armed Police (SPUNER); members of the Naga Scholars Association; and representatives of organizations such as the Delhi Eastern Nagaland Students’ Union, Delhi Ao Kaketshir Telongjem, and Lotha Students’ Union, Delhi, along with other special invitees.
The second session, hosted by Levisha Nungchim, featured electrifying musical performances by guest artist Sunep Lemtur and other Naga artists and bands based in the Delhi-NCR region, including Ring Dangsha, Susanna C Roel, Awarthanga Chiru, Soul Music Academy, and Ihao Music School.